Dr. Solomon is a specialist in Institutional Review Board policy, research ethics with vulnerable populations, and collaborative health research methodologies involving community partners. Her work has focused on both theoretical and practical aspects of research ethics and community-engaged research. She has published and presented on the role of the public in scientific and medical decision-making, and has been involved with several community focus groups and advisory boards. She graduated with a PhD in philosophy from Emory University and completed her postdoctoral training at the University of Michigan.

Stephanie first became interested in health care ethics after studying the interaction of scientific communities with the public, and the history of AIDS research. From there, she began to examine research that involved medicine and public health, which then led her to the field of bioethics. Her current research interests include public opinion and responsibility in biobanking, and ethics training for community partners.

“Stephanie brings significant expertise and interest in the area of human research ethics,” says Jim DuBois, PhD, DSc and Director of the Social Science Research Group and the CCRE. “This will enrich multiple educational programs affiliated with our Center—our PhD program, RCR training for investigators at SLU, and clinical research ethics training at Washington University’s ICTS."

Through her teaching at the Center, Dr. Solomon hopes to broaden the understanding of research ethics and the relationship between clinical practice and research. She enjoys the exchange of knowledge that is produced in a classroom setting and is looking forward to teaching in the spring. “I’m a social learner,” she says. “When people in a group are engaging in a topic, really interesting things come out and assumptions are challenged."

“We are pleased to have Stephanie join us. She will expand our already strong and nationally recognized efforts in research ethics,” says Jeff Bishop, MD, PhD and Director of the Center for Heath Care Ethics. “She is an engaging person with a great sense of humor, and I am sure she will prove to be a great dialogue partner for faculty and students, both inside and outside the Center for Health Care Ethics."

Dr. Solomon is an avid volunteer and is already involved in neighborhood community meetings. She’s been to the City Museum and considers it the best she’s ever visited. Stephanie is excited to be in the city of St. Louis during a period of growth and restoration. She enjoys learning about the history and culture in the area and says, “The most important things to know about St. Louis can’t be found on a map."